Ross Papadakis 
Josh Nisbet in action for the Socceroos against Lebanon in Canberra. Photo: Aleksandar Jason/Subway Socceroos
As Tony Popovic prepares to take the reins of the Socceroos and an international window just around the corner, the Australians playing abroad will be eager to make their mark and secure a place in his first squad.
From the Scottish Premiership to the J1 League and the Championship, Australians are continuing to impress.
Nisbet’s Assist and Stamatelopoulos’ Comeback
Josh Nisbet is fitting right in at the Staggies, as he bagged himself an assist and created the most chances (4) in Ross County’s 3-3 draw with St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership.
Not only was he a threat going forward, but he also showed his defensive prowess by winning the most tackles (3) on the pitch.
Nisbet has now featured in centre midfield in all of Ross County’s opening fixtures since joining the club, starting four and coming off the bench once.
Finishing second last in their 2023/24 Scottish Premiership campaign, the Staggies now sit in 8th place as they push for safety.
Elsewhere in Scotland, Apostolos Stamatelopoulos made a triumphant return to Scottish football after a four-week absence due to a muscle injury.
Stamatelopoulos was introduced as a substitute in the 81st minute of Motherwell’s 2-1 victory over Dundee United in the Scottish League Cup.
With an international window looming and Kusini Yengi sidelined from club football, Stamatelopoulos’ comeback provides a much-needed boost to the Socceroos attacking options. The experienced forward will be eager to rediscover his scoring touch and make a significant impact for his club and maybe even country in the coming weeks.
Langerak Shines as Grampus Climbs the J1 League
Mitch Langerak was in between the sticks as Nagoya Grampus beat Kawasaki Frontale 2-0 in the J1 League. Langerak has now kept three clean sheets in his last four league matches as his side climbed to 8th in the J1.
Nagoya also finds themselves in the J.League Cup Semi-Final where they will play Yokohama F. Marinos for a chance to win their second J.League cup in four years.
Melbourne Victory will have both eyes on Langerak for the remainder of the season. As their newly acquired goalkeeper joining the club in January, Langerak’s performances in Japan will be closely monitored by Victory fans.
His ability to maintain a high level of play and contribute to Nagoya’s success will likely influence expectations for his performance in the A-League.
Souttar’s Stellar Form Continues as Sheffield United Dominates
Harry Souttar has kept up his incredible form for Championship outfit, Sheffield United, being awarded ‘Man of the Match as his side beat Callum Elder’s Derby County.
Souttar has now kept three clean sheets in a row as Sheffield continues their unbeaten start to their 2024/25 campaign as he solidifies his position as one of the league’s top defenders.
Esposito Impresses in Italy
Young Socceroo Sebastian Esposito has been an integral part of US Lecce U20s’ Primavera 1 campaign. The talented defender has played every single minute of the team’s campaign so far, showcasing his impressive skills and dedication.
In their recent match against Juventus U20, Esposito once again proved his worth.
Despite facing a tough opponent, he played a crucial role in helping his team secure a 3-3 draw, as they sit in 6th position on the Primavera table.
Adana Demirspor Cuts Ties with Struggling Aussie Coach
Adana Demirspor has parted ways with Australian manager Michael Valkanis after a disappointing six-game tenure in the Turkish SuperLig.
With just one draw and five losses in their six matches, Adana Demirspor currently finds themselves at the bottom of the league table, a far cry from the expectations placed on them. The club is now actively searching for a new coach to revitalize their campaign and improve their fortunes in the Turkish top flight.